So this is the first truly "meaningless" game of the season, the Diamondbacks having officially been eliminated from post-season contention about half-way through yesterday's contest, when the Cardinals beat the Nationals. But there's still some stuff to play for, in both personal and team milestones. For instance, as a fan - and, I suspect, for the players too - a winning record is still something worth having, in contrast to the alternatives. Just ask Pirates fans, who secured their 20th straight alternative yesterday - for emphasis, being no-hit for the first time over that period, to do so.
I also am keen to inflict as many losses on the Cubs as possible. They remain without a victory on the road against the NL West this season, having lost 17 straight games. I have absolutely no idea of how to check, but that has got to be close to unparalleled in baseball history. Be nice to continue the run the rest of the way and sweep them: this would a) give them 100 losses, and b) guarantee us a non-losing season.
Like I said: small victories. Here's today's line-up for the Diamondbacks, as they get to don their Saturday black for the final time this season - looks like Goldzilla's back continue to bother him, so Jacobs gets another start at first.
- Adam Eaton CF
- Gerardo Parra LF
- Aaron Hill 2B
- Justin Upton RF
- Miguel Montero C
- Ryan Wheeler 3B
- Mike Jacobs 1B
- John McDonald SS
- Trevor Cahill P